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Mailbag: How Does Zeke Impact RB Depth Chart?

by
Bryan Broaddus
,
Rob Phillips
&
Dallas Cowboys Mailbag

At running back, do the Cowboys approach the decision of who to keep based on a holdout or with Ezekiel Elliott expected to be back at some point? And how has Darius Jackson looked compared to Tony Pollard and Alfred Morris? - DANA RAWLINGS / MOUNT AIRY, MD

Bryan: They went out and obtained Alfred Morris for a reason. If Elliott decides to sit, you’re going to need a veteran back that has the experience in these games to carry the load until a guy like Pollard is ready. I believe that a third back will come down to Jackson or Chunn. If Elliott does report, then it’s likely one of those guys would end up on the practice squad.

Rob: No doubt Morris offers veteran insurance while Elliott is gone, but I wouldn’t rule out Morris being on the team after Zeke comes back. He hasn’t been a major special teams player throughout his career, but they had interest in signing him before the holdout started. Obviously Tony Pollard is going to have a role in this offense either way, and so will fullback Jamize Olawale.

I’ve been happy with what I’ve seen out of Cooper Rush so far in preseason. Even though we hope it doesn’t happen, do you think he’s capable of keeping the team competitive for a few games in the event of an injury to Dak? - SHANE PARKER / DANA POINT, CA

Bryan: He’s no worse than the guys that are currently on the street. Could he carry this team for a couple of games? Absolutely. But he’s going to need everyone around him to play at an even higher level.

Rob: Yes, I think you should be encouraged. He’s making good decisions in these games (no turnovers) and he’s making downfield throws with confidence. Those are two things a backup quarterback has to do.